Testers with damage caused by gels or acrylics also noticed a difference, with all saying nails looked stronger after use. This polish can be used as a base or top coat and aims to leave nails looking stronger and more even.

This oil claims to soften tough skin and moisturise nails and the skin surrounding them, making it a top choice for anyone with dry hands. It did take over two weeks to see results but most said it left nails stronger and helped to prevent the usual peeling and breakages. Hearst UK is the trading name of the National Magazine Company Ltd, 30 Panton Street, Leicester Square, London, SW1Y 4AJ. The key to keeping brittle nails strong is to keep them hydrated with an efficacious hand cream, like this GH Beauty lab test-winning formula from Eucerin, containing key ingredients like urea and lactic acid.

They also noticed a difference in the strength of their nails after two weeks, with many reporting less breakages.

Apply a thin coat of Fix n Protect Directly to the nail (Capping the free edge) - Cure for 30 seconds under LED or 2 minutes under UV. Strengthening varnishes, which leave a shiny, hard coating on nails, enforces tips, making them appear thicker and can protect against damage. While they do have a bit of a bad reputation, they don’t cause any damage at this low potency or in this format.

Unlike other strengtheners, ella + mila is scented with a sweet fragrance that has notes of watermelon and the formula “lasts longer than others," a panelist commented. Our testers found this polish worked great as a base coat, so you can get that punch of colour and know your nails are still being nourished underneath. If you’re short on time, our testers found this oil had the quickest positive impact on their nails. When she isn’t packing for a trip away, working out, eating out or reading up on retinol serums, you’ll probably find her experimenting with her film camera and building her portfolio of portraits.